Updating the Computer

Updating or upgrading your computer is an easy task but it can become a real nightmare if neglected for too long. Unfortunately, many people tend to neglect it, as the computer seems to be running well and isn't complaining. This happy state of affairs continues until the inevitable day arrives when you go to a website such as Netflix wanting to watch a movie and get an error message complaining that your web browser is outdated.

This nightmare can be avoided simply by updating regularly. At least twice a month is recommended, and once a week is better. You're perfectly welcome to update every day if you want. At the very least, regular updating provides security updates needed to keep your computer safe. Even if Linux is a very secure system, you don't want to push it. While your computer is updating you are still free to use it, unlike a lot of smartphones where you have to wait until the system upgrade is complete. Also, being Linux, there are going to be any number of ways to choose from to keep your system up to date. Find one that works for you. A couple are discussed here.

Using the Terminal

Update at least 1 x every week or more often if you like-
*Click on the icon furthest to the left on the very bottom of the computer, it is to the left of the number 1

• Scroll up to system tools
• Click on Qterminal
• Type updateall in terminal.
• Type in password on the tape on your computer.
• It will start working
• When you see $ once it stops (this takes a few moments)
• Type in- exit
• You’re done until next week!

If, during the upgrade, you are ever prompted to make a choice, you can generally safely type 'y' for yes and then click 'Enter'. You can also just click 'Enter' which will leave things as they are, untouched.

Using apps

If the terminal seems scary, there are apps dedicated to upgrading the computer. You can find an app called "System Upgrade" in the main menu under "System Tools".

• Click on the menu icon at the lower left of the screen and select System Tools --> System Upgrade


• You'll be asked to enter your password. Enter password and click "OK".


• The update will proceed. In general you can answer "yes" if asked questions about replacing files, or it's usually safe to choose the default.


• Finally you'll be notified when the upgrade process has completed. Click "OK" and you're done!